The Mystery of Growth

Gospel: Mark 4:  26-34

None of us need to have advanced education in the biological sciences in order for plants to grow.  A farmer knows that if she sows the seed and does her part in the process that it is likely the plants will grow.  How does it all work? We may know more about that question now than in times past, but it has no effect on the process itself.  Things will continue to grow on this earth independent of our knowledge of it.

Similarly, our faith grows in mysterious ways as well.  A tiny germ of faith is planted within us.  We do our small part to accept and receive that germ of faith, and it grows.  We know not how.  Countless religious charlatans will tell you they know.  They'll talk of "God's plan" as if they knew what that was and sell a book or workshop to tell us what we need to do in order for our faith to grow.  Most of the time what they say does not connect to most people's experience and bears little resemblance to authentic faith.  

A farmer knows her part in the process of growth is limited.  She has to trust that God will provide the sun and rain that plants need for her crops to grow.  She has to hope storms or other calamities do not destroy her crop.  Growing things is a fragile profession, and so is the life of faith.  It requires great faith and hope in the mystery of God's life within us, that it will grow and produce much fruit.  Trust the process, and all shall be well.